Zoe Wrisley

Zoe Wrisley serves as a Civic Designer on the Innovation Team within the Mayor’s Office for the City of Akron. In her role, she focuses on human-centered design and resident-driven research to help address complex civic challenges. A passionate advocate for inclusive community engagement, Zoe works to ensure diverse voices are represented in decision-making processes.

One example of her commitment to accessibility involved coordinating the translation of project materials for Spanish-speaking community members participating in West Akron initiatives. By helping remove language barriers, she expanded opportunities for residents to share their experiences and contribute valuable input. While she recognizes that language needs across Akron are diverse and extensive, Zoe believes that every step toward greater inclusion can make a meaningful difference.

Zoe previously served on the board of Bridge the Village, a nonprofit organization that supported Akron Public Schools families during the post-pandemic period by connecting vulnerable community members with needed resources. Her volunteer service also includes work with Akron Snow Angels, iCARE Mentoring, and United Way. Throughout these experiences, she has often helped bridge communication gaps for Spanish-speaking residents, creating meaningful connections and support opportunities.

Over the past five years, Zoe has become deeply involved in serving Akron’s youth, families, and neighborhoods. Those experiences have strengthened her understanding of the challenges immigrant families face and inspired her desire to contribute to solutions that foster belonging and opportunity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Kent State University and has long been interested in how organizations can best support international communities.

Professionally, Zoe brings a multidisciplinary background spanning information technology, education, and human-centered design. She holds a master’s degree in User Experience Design and is currently completing a doctorate in Interprofessional Leadership with a focus on educational technology. Her work emphasizes equity, sustainability, and community-driven innovation, values that closely align with the mission of Proyecto Raices.

Outside of her professional life, Zoe and her husband, a Hispanic immigrant, are active members of a Spanish-speaking church that is relocating from Stow to Akron. They recently welcomed their daughter, Gabriela, and look forward to raising her with a deep appreciation for both her cultural heritage and the Akron community they proudly call home.

Marcus Molina

Marcus Molina brings a unique blend of marketing, branding, higher education, and community engagement experience to the Proyecto Raices Board. Throughout his career, he has worked in both small business and higher education environments, leading projects that range from visual identity development and environmental branding to multi-channel marketing campaigns.

As a Marketing and Brand Designer, Marcus combines user experience principles, branding strategy, and institutional storytelling to create meaningful and engaging visual communications. His work focuses on helping organizations connect with their audiences through thoughtful design that reflects identity, accessibility, and community values. He is particularly skilled at transforming ideas into visual experiences that communicate purpose and inspire engagement.

In addition to his design expertise, Marcus has extensive experience in student leadership development and community-centered programming. He has advised student organizations and supported initiatives focused on culture, belonging, and engagement. These experiences have shaped his belief that effective visual storytelling should reflect the lived experiences of the communities it serves.

Marcus has also contributed to culturally significant projects at Kent State University. Among his most notable work were the marketing campaigns for Hispanic Heritage Month and Black History Month during the 2024-2025 academic year. These projects required thoughtful collaboration, active listening, and a deep commitment to ensuring authentic cultural representation.

Through his combined experience in marketing and education, Marcus brings valuable insight into outreach, engagement, and storytelling. He looks forward to supporting Proyecto Raices in expanding awareness of its programs and strengthening connections with Hispanic and Latino families across the region.

Looking Ahead

Proyecto Raices is excited to welcome Zoe and Marcus to the Board of Directors. Their diverse backgrounds, leadership experiences, and dedication to community service will help strengthen the organization’s ability to serve Hispanic and immigrant families throughout the Akron area. The Board and staff look forward to the perspectives, talents, and enthusiasm they will bring as Proyecto Raices continues to grow its impact.